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GeordieFalconObvious and correct choice.
But we now have a few more leaders on the park to support him...something else that's developing nicely

Yes we have a good nucleus of players who are leaders in their own right. The likes of Wilson, Green, Flood, Young etc are all leaders in their own right.
We have a good core that makes for a good team. I think we'll do just fine again if we avoid injuries to key players.

DB23It may be the obvious choice but he is not a leader and it places limitations on back row options, of which we have plenty, if Welch is guaranteed a spot

I like him as a leader

Last year I had the ref link and could hear him regularly giving the ref some decision making assistance.

He leads by example on the pitch and is a fantastic player.

Off the pitch he seems to be a great ambassador also.

As for being guaranteed a place, he missed a few through injury last year and wasn't rushed back because the club has a number of leaders. Thus the pressure is off in terms of selection so that if he misses out then so be it.

Deanos pick for captain is never usually the best player on the pitch. He picks the player most fits what he wants from a Captain. He is not sentimental if that player is not one of the best 22 when it comes to match day selections.

I think he had Skinner at Quins. Though his Tigers captain was easier....

DB23It may be the obvious choice but he is not a leader and it places limitations on back row options, of which we have plenty, if Welch is guaranteed a spot

Im not sure DB.

Will reminds me of Lewis Moody in many ways...in that he seems to have no fear for his own personal safety. He puts his head in where it hurts and leads from the front defensively...making tackle after tackle, and will simply not stop until that final whistle is blown. That alone makes people follow your lead.

That's the kind of mentality that Dean is building this team around.

I also think he does talk to the refs...he's not extravagant about it. You don't need to be. Subtle chats about scenarios probably get more results than screaming and shouting at a ref.

The other thing..is that Will is not guaranteed an automatic place. He will know only too well that players like Gary Graham, Connor Collett, Calum Chick etc WILL get plenty of gametime as with others. But that's fine...he's the CLUB captain and still gives advice in the changing room etc.
On the pitch, you then have mark Wilson take over..or Calum Green, or Calum Chick etc.
back row rotation will happen. Welch will most likely be involved in the key games though.

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